Gilmour Space Technologies has announced that it will launch its first dedicated ‘rideshare’ mission to low earth orbit (LEO) in late 2024. Rideshare launches contain multiple client payloads, but in the past have typically been focused around a large, primary customer.

“Called Caravan-1, this mission will provide affordable access to new space customers looking to launch into a mid-inclination orbit at the end of 2024,” said Adam Gilmour, CEO and co-founder of Gilmour Space.

Gilmour Space Technologies was set up through venture capital to target the growing space sector, especially the demand for low-cost transit to LEO. The company stated that it should launch its first ‘Eris’ rocket from the Bowen Orbital Spaceport Queensland, Australia early in 2023.

“Caravan-1 will launch in 2024 on our upgraded Eris Block 2 rocket (pictured), which will have a lift capacity of one tonne or 1,000 kilograms to LEO — a significant increase in launch capability and capacity for our customers,” said Gilmour. “The next few years are going to be a very exciting time for the global space industry, and missions like this will allow us to support the growth of new satellite and in-orbit technologies that could benefit humanity on Earth, in space, and beyond.”